Police are appealing for witnesses after racially abusive graffiti was sprayed onto a community message board in Herne Hill last week.
Local officers were told on Monday that the incident took place some time on Saturday (June 12) or Sunday (June 13). No arrests have been made and the investigation into possible racially aggravated criminal damage is ongoing.
Police heard reports that racial and prejudicial remarks were sprayed onto the information board in Brockwell Park and an electricity box near Brockwell Lido on Dulwich Road, SE24.
PC Jack Woods said: “Bearing in mind the nature of the crime, it’s possible that many people saw this graffiti and have been caused significant distress. This kind of abuse has no place in our community and we are working tirelessly to bring this person, or persons, to justice and ensure it does not happen again. This area, as does the rest of London, remains an open and inclusive place for all.
“We are appealing for any witnesses come forward. Officers believe this crime may have been committed during the hours the park was closed overnight – between around 20:00hrs on Saturday and 07:15hrs on Sunday morning. Potential witnesses may have directly seen the act being committed or may have seen someone breaking into the park at some point during this time.
“We have been working closely with Lambeth Council who were quick to remove this damage and notify the police, for which we are grateful.
“Anyone who may have witnessed anything in relation to this incident is kindly asked to come forward with information. Please call 101 and quote CAD 5331/16Jun. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 11 or via Twitter: @CrimestoppersUK”